LTHS Senior Receives Countywide Honor

Michael Brown has been pretty busy the last three years, acting in several plays through the Lacey Township High School Drama Club, current Vice-President of the Chemistry Club, active in the Math Team, Interact Club, Student Government Association, and National Honor Society, and volunteering at the Forked River School Library twice a week, all the while earning grades that put him on the school's High Honor Roll.

Michael's achievements earned him recognition recently by the Ocean County School Boards Association. On May 1, he was honored as one of their outstanding students for the 2011-2012 school year at a ceremony at the Frog Pond Elementary School in Little Egg Harbor. Michael's parents, Richard and Sherri Brown and his sister Amanda, were there to cheer him on.

"We are so proud of both our children's achievements and very happy for Michael when he does receive acknowledgement and recognition because he sacrifices a lot of personal time and takes his school work very seriously," said Richard Brown.

To earn the School Boards Association honor, Michael was nominated by someone at the high school. Principal William Zylinski was on hand for the May 1 ceremony but could not be reached for comment.

"I really appreciate that my hard work is noticed," said Michael Brown. "It makes me feel good that someone cares."

While in high school, Michael said being involved in the drama club has had the biggest impact in his life. He played roles in this year's production of "Beauty and the Beast," and last year's "The Drowsy Chaperone." But, he said one teacher in particular has inspired him to accomplish all that he has.

"Mrs. (Anita) Soto, my sophomore year English teacher, had an impact on my high school career," he said. "Her class was challenging, helped my confidence and helped me realize my true potential."

Richard Brown said his son has been recognized many times for many reasons throughout his high school career and is an outstanding, dedicated student.

"Michael is a very caring, considerate, respectful and polite young man," he said. "He truly cares about others' feelings and concerns and would help anyone out without expecting something in return."

Michael said being as busy as he's been these last few years has taught him a lot.

"It's improved my responsibility since my entire high school career I had honors classes," said Michael. "It's been challenging. I'd come home and have a checklist of homework and clubs I'd have to do on my own time."

Brown will be attending The College of New Jersey in the fall and has been accepted into their Business Honors program. He is interested in a career in accounting.